Wolf Watch
Wolf Watch is St. Francis’s weekly e-newsletter to our parent community that shares announcements for each grade level and updates on school activities and events. Wolf Watch is updated weekly throughout the school year, so check back every Sunday for the latest on St. Francis happenings.
For this week’s news, please select the appropriate section below.
News for the Week of April 20
All School
This Week's Bible Verse
You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. —Mark 16:6
Easter Sunday: He Is Risen!
He is risen! The announcement of the angels at his empty tomb was inconceivable, impossible. But as the truth of this claim began to sink in, the despair turned to hope, the fear turned to courage, and the sadness turned to inexpressible joy. This message became the lifeblood of the Christian church, and of all who seek to follow Jesus. May the risen Lord Jesus bring joy and hope and courage to you on your journey. He is risen!
Prayer and Other Support
Use this Care and Compassion Support Request form to submit confidential prayer requests directly to the chaplains. There is also a section on the form to request specific tangible support for yourself or others, beyond prayer, if needed.
Health & Safety Update
Epidemiologists from the health agencies overseeing both of our campuses are no longer requesting additional information, as we have not seen a concentration of illness reports over the past week. Therefore, we are returning to our policy that individuals must be symptom-free for 24 hours without medication before returning to campus after an illness. The online Self-Report form is no longer required. Additionally, we will resume normal food service operations this week, with a few recommended adjustments—such as enhanced sanitary protocols in self-serve areas.
Moving forward, we will engage both health agencies for support as needed, including Harris County Public Health providing further onsite training for our SFE facilities team, nurses, and SAGE Dining Services staff later this month. This will continue to improve our operational protocols and inform further updates reflected in our 2025-26 Student Handbook. While the norovirus outbreak was an unexpected challenge for our school, we are grateful to both health agencies, our administration, and our families for their swift response and flexibility, allowing us to stop the spread and minimize future occurrences.
St. Francis Fine Arts Festival Is April 30–May 4
The St. Francis Fine Arts Festival is a fun, family experience where attendees can enjoy student performances, meet visiting authors, attend our fine arts galleries displaying student and alumni work, and enjoy a full-scale art car parade on both of our beautiful campuses during the school day and into the evening.
- The Fine Arts Festival starts on Wednesday, April 30, and concludes on Sunday, May 4.
- Our Festival is a collaboration featuring work from each division, across two campuses. See the full schedule here.
- It provides a chance to celebrate our robust arts program, which is acclaimed citywide. Whether patrons choose to listen to the choir sing; attend the Middle School play, This Is a Test; tour our art exhibitions and installations; or enjoy an Upper School theater showcase and dance show, there is something for everyone. Come join us in celebrating the talents of our student artists!
Buy Tickets Now: MS Play Is May 3 and 4
Don't miss the Middle School production of This Is a Test, which runs Saturday, May 3, and Sunday, May 4. In the play, Middle School students face a pivotal moment: everything hinges on one routine history exam—their reputations, their futures, and everything in between. With a dynamic ensemble cast that never leaves the stage, This Is a Test delivers a surreal, satirical take on the challenges of growing up in the modern age, the countless digital distractions, and the quest for success.
- Take a trip back to school and relive the pressure of exam day. Don’t worry … it’s only a test.
- Production intended for ages 10 and up.
- Book your tickets now.
Save the Date: FlynnO’Hara SFE Private Shopping Day Is June 13
FlynnO’Hara is the official uniform provider of St. Francis—and the organization has a shopping day just for our school on Friday, June 13, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Here is the flyer with all the details, including a link for families to schedule their shopping appointment. The FlynnO’Hara team will be available to measure students, answer uniform-related questions, and assist with back-to-school shopping.
Help the SFPO Say ‘Thank You’ to Faculty and Staff: End-of-Year Gift Collection Now Open!
Twice a year, the St. Francis Parents Organization (SFPO) invites families to contribute toward gift collections to show our appreciation for our incredible teachers and staff. By pooling our generosity, we’re able to provide a thoughtful distribution of gifts to everyone—from classroom teachers to support staff—reflecting the value each faculty and staff member brings to our children’s experience.
- Click here to make a contribution by Sunday, May 4.
- For additional details, please read this letter from the SFPO.
Primary School
Dive Into a Good Book at the Primary School Book Fair: April 23–25
On Wednesday, April 23, through Friday, April 25, all Primary School families are invited to stop by the Primary School Library for our Under the Sea Book Fair.
BOOK FAIR HOURS
Primary School Book Fair hours are as follows:
- Wednesday, April 23: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.
- Thursday, April 24: 12:00–6:00 p.m. (Please note the extended afternoon hours.)
- Friday, April 25: 7:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. (Please note the extended morning hours.)
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Sign up here to volunteer if you would like to help at the Book Fair.
QUESTIONS?
Please email Brittny Bush with any questions. We can’t wait to see you there!
Mark Your Calendar
Monday, April 21
- Easter Monday Holiday: No school
Tuesday, April 22
- Chapel: 9:30 a.m.; Primary II and Pre-Primary (Griffith, Oteiza, and Polk) parents are invited to attend
Wednesday, April 23
- Chapel: 9:30 a.m.; Primary I and Pre-Primary (Keyes and Labarthe) parents are invited to attend
- Under the Sea Book Fair: 9:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m. in the PS Library
- Pre-Primary Mothers and Others Picnic: 11:00 a.m.
Thursday, April 24
- Primary II Mothers and Others: 1:30 p.m.
- Under the Sea Book Fair: 12:00–6:00 p.m. in the PS Library
Friday, April 25
- Primary I Mothers and Others Picnic: 11:00 a.m.
- Under the Sea Book Fair: 7:00 a.m.–12:30 p.m. in the PS Library
Monday, April 28
- No Open Library
Tuesday, April 29
- Chapel: 9:30 a.m.; Primary II and Pre-Primary (Griffith, Oteiza, and Polk) parents are invited to attend
Wednesday, April 30
- Chapel: 9:30 a.m.; Primary I and Pre-Primary (Keyes and Labarthe) parents are invited to attend
Lower School
Rising Fifth Graders: Makeup Testing for Advanced Academics Placement Is May 3
Rising fifth graders (current fourth graders) who are applying for 2025–26 Advanced Academics and were unable to attend placement testing in early April should plan to attend the makeup session scheduled for Saturday, May 3, at 8:30 a.m. Please contact Julie Downs, Interim Assistant Head of Middle School, if you have any questions.
Mark Your Calendar
Monday, April 21
- Easter Monday Holiday: No school
Thursday, April 24
- LS Chapel: 8:20–8:50 a.m.
Monday, April 28
- LS Chapel: 8:20–8:50 a.m.
Thursday, May 1
- LS Chapel: 8:20–8:50 a.m.
Friday, May 2
- LS AAPI Heritage Month Assembly: 2:15–2:45 p.m. in the Piney Point Gym; students only
- LS/MS/US Spring Choir Concert: 6:30–7:30 p.m. in the FAC
Middle School
Eighth-Grade Art á la Carte Field Trip Is Friday
Our eighth-grade students will visit The Menil Collection this Friday, April 25. Students should wear their regular school uniform or Spirit Wear for this day, with comfortable walking shoes.
Advanced Academics Placement: Makeup Testing Is May 3
Students who were unable to attend Advanced Academics placement testing in early April should plan to attend the makeup session scheduled for Saturday, May 3, at 8:30 a.m. Please contact Julie Downs, Interim Assistant Head of Middle School, if you have any questions.
Dance for Grades 6–8 Is May 9
There will be a dance for students in grades 6–8 on Friday, May 9, from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. on the Piney Point Campus.
- The theme for the dance is Summer!
- Attire will follow dress code guidelines: Shirts or dresses should have sleeves, and shorts or skirts should be modest in length.
- Some students have expressed an interest in dressing up for the evening to make this event a special occasion.
Athletics Physicals for Returning Students Are May 14
St. Francis will be providing on-campus athletics physicals for returning students on Wednesday, May 14. Please be on the lookout for the information packet that will be sent home with your student this Friday, April 25. If you have any questions, please contact Athletic Trainer Katie Ostrovecky or Piney Point Campus Nurse Fay Gant.
Community Service: Submit Volunteer Hours by May 2
St. Francis Episcopal School recognizes and celebrates students who involve themselves in helping others. During the 2024–25 school year, students in each grade level are required to participate in completing a minimum number of service hours, as follows:
- Fifth Grade: 10 hours
- Sixth Grade: 10 hours
- Seventh Grade: 15 hours
- Eighth Grade: 20 hours
To submit your service hours, complete the Community Service Hours Request Form and drop it off in the Middle School Office or email a PDF to Sarah Flores. The deadline to submit volunteer hours for the 2024–25 school year is Friday, May 2.
Mark Your Calendar
Monday, April 21
- Easter Monday Holiday: No school
Tuesday, April 22
- “A” Day
- Regular Uniform
- Regular Schedule
Wednesday, April 23
- “B” Day
- Regular Uniform
- National Junior Honor Society Trip to the Alley Theatre
Thursday, April 24
- “A” Day
- Regular Uniform
- Regular Schedule
- MS Chapel: 9:55–10:20 a.m. in the St. Francis Episcopal Church Sanctuary
Friday, April 25
- “B” Day
- St. Francis Spirit Wear: St. Francis Spirit tops with full-length blue jeans or uniform bottoms
- Regular Schedule
- Eighth-Grade Art á la Carte Field Trip
Monday, April 28
- “A” Day
- Regular Uniform
- Regular Schedule
- MS Chapel: 9:55–10:20 a.m. in the St. Francis Episcopal Church Sanctuary
- Fall Sports Preview and Eighth-Grade Final Exam Study Hall Begins
Tuesday, April 29
- “B” Day
- Regular Uniform
- Regular Schedule
Wednesday, April 30
- “A” Day
- Regular Uniform
- Regular Schedule
Thursday, May 1
- “B” Day
- Regular Uniform
- Regular Schedule
- MS Chapel: 9:55–10:20 a.m. in the St. Francis Episcopal Church Sanctuary
Friday, May 2
- “A” Day
- St. Francis Spirit Wear: St. Francis Spirit tops with full-length blue jeans or uniform bottoms
- Special Schedule
- Asian American/Pacific Islander Event: 9:40 a.m.; students only
- LS/MS/US Spring Choir Concert: 6:30–7:30 p.m. in the FAC
Upper School
Final Exams Are May 19–23: Schedule Below
You will find the final exam schedule below. Note the start time for testing sessions is 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. This month, teachers and advisors will work with students on their individual exam schedules, as well as on the logistics for exam week and the review sessions prior to exams.
Monday, |
Tuesday, |
Wednesday, |
Thursday, |
Friday, |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|
8-11 a.m. |
English I |
World History I |
Algebra I |
Biology 9 |
Spanish (all) |
12-3 p.m. |
English III |
US History |
Algebra II |
Physics 11 |
Seniors, Complete the Laptop Release Process
Seniors, as you prepare to transition from St. Francis, please complete the laptop release process to ensure your school laptop is fully released from our device management system and can be used without restrictions at home and at college.
- Complete the device release checklist and bring the laptop to the technology suite before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 9. You must hand the computer to a Tech staff member.
- The Technology Department will factory reset the device, remove all school-licensed apps, and return it to you.
- Your school-issued email, Veracross, and Google accounts will be disconnected at the end of the day on Monday, June 30.
Follow-Up: Language in Our Community Initiative
Thank you to all who participated in the recent Coffee and Conversation event in the Upper School. We appreciate your engagement and valuable input.
- As a continuation of our discussion on "Language in Our Community," students will participate in a structured conversation about appropriate language use within our community next week.
- We believe these conversations will foster a more respectful and inclusive environment for all members of our school community.
- Should you have any questions or feedback, please don't hesitate to reach out to Wlede Frankfort, Coordinator of Community and Inclusivity.
The Social Institute: ‘Handle the Pressure’
In the past week, our students participated in a Social Institute lesson on the topic of “Handle the Pressure,” specifically exploring what roles tech plays in their lives and how they can use it to thrive while keeping healthy boundaries. Please click here for further information on the curriculum and for resources on how to continue the conversation at home.
From the Episcopal Diocese of Texas: Sign Up Now for SUMMA Theological Debate Summer Camp
Held each July on the campus of the University of the South in Sewanee, Tenn., SUMMA Theological Debate Summer Camp is a way to bring high school students from across the country to explore life’s biggest questions through theological debate. SUMMA offers the unique opportunity for students to develop skills in public speaking while deepening their faith and understanding. Guided by university professors, priests, and bishops, they explore real-word debate resolution through the lens of their faith—with plenty of time left for hiking, sports, games, music, and arts and crafts. Campers leave with new skills, fresh insights, warm memories, and great friends.
- The 2025 camp will take place July 15–23, and camper spots and tuition scholarships are available.
- To learn more about the program or to share it with potential applicants, please visit the SUMMA website.
- For questions, email SUMMA.
Tuesday: Junior Ring Ceremony
Parents/guardians of juniors, we are excited to have you join us this Tuesday, April 22, at 6:00 p.m. in St. Francis Episcopal Church (345 Piney Point Road) to celebrate our rising seniors at the Junior Ring Ceremony. This is a mandatory event for all juniors, and dress uniform is required.
Wednesday: Monumental Questions on the Monumental Steps
Wednesdays at 7:30 a.m., join a Bible study with Mother Hylden to explore the big questions that are filling your mind this week. Mtr. Hylden provides baked goods, as well as a time of prayer as we start the day.
Wednesday: College Athletics Recruiting and Information Session
Please join Director of College Counseling Claudia Mejia and Director of Athletics Ernest Robertson Jr. for College Athletics: NCAA/NIL Information Session this Wednesday, April 23, at 6:30 p.m. in Crum Gym. You’ll learn about academic-eligibility requirements for college sports, and how name, image, and likeness opportunities are affecting college student-athletes. Please RSVP here.
Thursday: Lunch With Mtr. Hylden
Thursdays at noon, enjoy lunch with Mother Hylden. Share the “heart of your week” or your “high, low, buffalo” with her for a homemade chocolate chip cookie. We’ll reflect on the relationships, academics, sports games, and events that have lived rent-free in our heads and hearts this week.
Calling All Freshmen and Sophomores: Summer 2026 Travel Opportunity
The SFE Theatre Program is excited to announce that they will lead a group of US theater students on a once‐in‐a‐lifetime educational tour to AHSTF Fringe Festival over the summer 2026! This trip offers a wealth of opportunities for learning outside the classroom and for personal growth.
The American High School Theatre Festival, a one-of-a-kind theatre opportunity, runs in conjunction with the world’s largest performing arts festival, the world-renowned Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Our group will spend a total of two weeks in the UK, performing our own production, attending Fringe shows, and touring Scotland and England.
To learn more and enroll, visit SFE Educational Travel.
Wolf of the Week
Students, faculty, and staff are invited to nominate a student they have seen being a "person for others" as Wolf of the Week. Winners will be announced in Chapel on Fridays.
Mark Your Calendar
Monday, April 21
- Easter Monday Holiday: No school
Tuesday, April 22
- “A” Day
- Regular Uniform
- US Chapel: 10:00–10:30 a.m. in Crum Gym
- Junior Ring Ceremony: 6:00 p.m. in St. Francis Episcopal Church; see info above
Wednesday, April 23
- “B” Day
- Regular Uniform
Thursday, April 24
- “A” Day
- Regular Uniform
Friday, April 25
- “B” Day
- SFES Spirit Dress: Wear a St. Francis Spirit shirt with full-length jeans or uniform bottoms
- US Chapel: 10:00–10:30 a.m. in Crum Gym
Saturday, April 26
- US Prom: 8:00–11:00 p.m. at Blossom Hotel
Monday, April 28
- “A” Day
- Regular Uniform
Tuesday, April 29
- “B” Day
- Regular Uniform
- Blessing of the Seniors: 10:00–10:30 a.m. in Crum Gym
Wednesday, April 30
- “A” Day
- Regular Uniform
Thursday, May 1
- “B” Day
- Regular Uniform
Friday, May 2
- “A” Day
- Dress Uniform
- No Chapel
- Awards Ceremony/Special Schedule: 3:00 p.m. in Crum Gym
- LS/MS/US Spring Choir Concert: 6:30–7:30 p.m. in the FAC
Church
Join Us Each Sunday for Worship and Family-Focused Events
- Sunday Family Worship Service: 9:00 a.m. in the church
- Let It Shine Children's Bible Lesson: On Sundays during the 9:00 a.m. Family Worship Service, join Mrs. Devlin to learn about the Bible as we act out Scripture with costumes and props and pray together.
- Coffee and Donuts: Every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. (after the 9:00 a.m. Family Worship Service), get a cup of coffee and enjoy a time of fellowship.
- Lighthouse Children's Art: 10:00 a.m. in the Parish Hall
- Holy Eucharist Rite II Traditional Service With Choral Music: 11:00 a.m.
- Holy Eucharist Rite I Service: 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. in the St. Clare Chapel
Easter Sunday Schedule
- Services: 7:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m., and 11:00 a.m. (No 5:00 p.m. service)
- Easter Celebration—Food and Fellowship: 8:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
- Easter Egg Hunt: 10:00 a.m. (Includes petting, feeding, and photo opportunities with bunnies)
- Easter Resurrection Flowered Cross Photo Opportunities: 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.
Donation Drive: Dress For Success Houston
Dress for Success Houston is dedicated to the mission of empowering women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire, and development tools to help women thrive in work and life.
- From April 27 through May 4, St. Francis is participating in a donation drive for Dress for Success Houston. A collection box will be in the Narthex.
- Needed: Handbags and close-toed shoes for a professional setting, gently used or new.
Please Pray: Kairos Prison Ministry Will Visit Terrell Unit May 1–4
Over the coming weeks, we ask you to pray for the Kairos Prison Ministry, which will lead a Kairos Weekend in the Terrell Unit in Rosharon from Thursday, May 1, to Sunday, May 4. During this time, volunteers, led by George Hippard, will enter the unit for three and a half days, delivering a defined program of talks, prayer, and praise. Individual meal tickets will be placed before residents at each meal, along with a placemat that is colored by a child or volunteer. A long-long-long prayer chain will be brought into the room, with each link of the chain bearing the first name of an individual who will pray for the participants over the weekend. Please pray for the residents and for those involved however you feel so called.
12-Step Recovery Program at St. Francis
If you, a family member, or a friend have a problem with alcohol, help is available. Please come join one of the 12-step recovery programs being offered at St. Francis on Sundays at 5:00 p.m.
- Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held weekly in Room CH207, upstairs in the Parish Hall building. For more information, please email Joanie McLeod.
- The Al-Anon Family Group meets weekly in Room CH211, upstairs in the Parish Hall.
All meeting rooms are ADA-accessible. Park in the north parking lot and come in through the Parish Hall doors.
Outreach Ministries: Opportunities to Serve
For additional information about any of the following outreach opportunities, visit the St. Francis Episcopal Church Outreach page or contact the church's Director of Outreach Heather Burkhart.
- Memorial Assistance Ministries has an urgent plea from the pantry team for baby wipes, tissues, size 6 diapers, dish soap, and spray cleaner.
- Lord of the Streets needs weekday volunteers between 8:00 a.m. and noon to serve our homeless neighbors. Over 300 hot meals are served daily. St. Francis also collects men’s clothes on an ongoing basis—men’s shoes are always needed.
- The Fair Haven Food Pantry needs volunteers and donations of non-perishable food.
Now on Spotify: Sermons From St. Francis
Sermons From St. Francis are now on Spotify. You can listen on an Apple or Android device, on your desktop computer, or on your tablet. The Sunday sermons are available anytime you want to be inspired while on the go. No Spotify account is necessary. Click here to start listening today!
Healing Prayers and Anointings Available
Healing prayers and anointings are always available after Sunday Eucharist services, or you may schedule an appointment with a priest. For more information or to schedule an appointment, email Sally Jo Flores or call 832.325.2983.
Share Your Prayer Requests Online
Share your prayer requests with us on the St. Francis Episcopal Church home page by clicking on "Prayer & Worship" at the top left of the website, then clicking on the “Prayer Requests” link in the dropdown menu.
Bible Studies at St. Francis
MEN'S BIBLE STUDIES
- Tuesdays at 7:00–8:00 a.m.
- Study: Gospel of John
- Contact: Fr. David Price
- Location: La Madeleine (Except on second Tuesday of each month, when group meets in St. Francis Church Parish Hall)
- Men’s Fellowship Breakfast and Study: Second Tuesday of Each Month at 8:00–9:30 a.m.
- Study: The Acts of the Apostles
- Location: St. Francis Church Parish Hall
- Contact: Sally Jo Flores
WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY (ON BREAK UNTIL FALL)
- Wednesdays from 9:30–11:00 a.m.
- Study: TBD
- Location: St. Francis Church Parish Hall
- Contact: Allison Devlin
ADULT BIBLE STUDY
- Sundays at 10:00–11:00 a.m.
- Study: The Book of Peter
- Location: Hogan Board Room
- Contact: George Hippard
How to Watch Sunday Service Via Livestream
To join St. Francis Episcopal Church’s 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. Sunday service via livestream, open an Internet browser on your computer, laptop, or phone. Type in the St. Francis website—sfch.org. Scroll down to the “Watch Our Live Stream” section. Either the 9:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m. service will be available.
Wolf Watch Archives
To view a previous edition of Wolf Watch, click on the corresponding link below:
2024-25
April 13, 2025
April 6, 2025
March 30, 2025
March 23, 2025
March 16, 2025
March 2, 2025
February 23, 2025
February 16, 2025
February 9, 2025
February 2, 2025
January 26, 2025
January 19, 2025
January 12, 2025
January 5, 2025
December 15, 2024
December 8, 2024
December 1, 2024
November 17, 2024
November 10, 2024
November 3, 2024
October 27, 2024
October 20, 2024
October 13, 2024
October 6, 2024
September 29, 2024
September 22, 2024
September 15, 2024
September 8, 2024
September 1, 2024
August 25, 2024
August 18, 2024
2023-24
May 19, 2024
May 12, 2024
May 5, 2024
April 28, 2024
April 21, 2024
April 14, 2024
April 7, 2024
March 31, 2024
March 24, 2024
March 17, 2024
March 3, 2024
February 25, 2024
February 18, 2024
February 11, 2024
February 4, 2024
January 28, 2024
January 21, 2024
January 14, 2024
January 7, 2024
December 17, 2023
December 10, 2023
December 3, 2023
November 26, 2023
November 12, 2023
November 5, 2023
October 29, 2023
October 22, 2023
October 15, 2023
October 8, 2023
October 1, 2023
September 24, 2023
September 17, 2023
September 10, 2023
September 3, 2023
August 27, 2023
August 20, 2023
August 13, 2023
2022-23
May 21, 2023
May 14, 2023
May 7, 2023
April 30, 2023
April 23, 2023
April 16, 2023
April 9, 2023
April 2, 2023
March 26, 2023
March 19, 2023
March 5, 2023
February 26, 2023
February 19, 2023
February 12, 2023
February 5, 2023
January 29, 2023
January 22, 2023
January 15, 2023
January 8, 2023
January 1, 2023
December 11, 2022
December 4, 2022
November 27, 2022
November 13, 2022
November 6, 2022
October 30, 2022
October 23, 2022
October 16, 2022
October 9, 2022
October 2, 2022
September 25, 2022
September 18, 2022
September 11, 2022
September 4, 2022
August 28, 2022
August 21, 2022
August 14, 2022